ASEPA GM Hails GZ Industry for Donating Protective Kits to Agency
By Ogbonnaya Ikokwu, Umuahia
The General Manager of the Abia State Environmental Protection Agency (ASEPA), Mazi Ogbonnia Okereke, has commended leading Nigerian recycling company GZ Industry for supporting the agency’s commitment to making Abia one of the cleanest states in the country.
Okereke made the remark on Wednesday in Umuahia, the state capital, when representatives of the company presented reflective coverall kits to ASEPA staff.
He noted that the company had shown its belief in the vision of Governor Alex Otti, which is focused on adding value, improving lives, and enhancing the environment and general wellbeing of Abia residents through impactful projects.
In his words:
“What we are doing today is simple but very significant, as it underscores the company’s firm belief in aligning with Governor Alex Otti’s vision. This gesture marks the beginning of collaborative efforts where corporate organizations like GZ Industry, operating in Nigeria of their own volition, find it necessary to support our initiatives. This is part of their Extended Producer Responsibility and Corporate Social Responsibility.”
“GZ took the initiative to assist ASEPA in properly clothing and equipping our workers. We encourage other corporate entities to emulate this initiative and support both the Abia State Government and the nation as a whole. Good governance and building a better society is not the sole responsibility of government, it involves every citizen and private organization.”
“We understand that what they have donated might not be considered large relative to their profits, but they were not compelled to do it. GZ is a responsible company; they pay their taxes, and this extra gesture is commendable. We promise them that the donated items will be put to good use.”
In his remarks, the Human Resource Manager of GZ Industry, Mr. Chukwuma Ndigwe, said the gesture aligns with the company’s policy of adding value to its host communities.
He revealed that the company is currently constructing a 3.7-kilometer concrete road, costing ₦9 billion, in the Umuochchi community where its plant is located.
“It’s very important for us as a company to respond to the needs we observe. That’s what led us to this initiative. One of our managers visiting Aba noticed ASEPA staff cleaning the streets without reflective kits, and we saw the need to intervene. We already do this in the western part of the country, and we plan to continue these efforts here. GZ has consistently prioritized Corporate Social Responsibility,” he said.
Ndigwe noted that the company was particularly drawn to ASEPA due to the recent innovations the agency has introduced in waste management across the state.
“What we’re seeing in Abia today resembles places like Rwanda, where if your food falls to the ground, you could pick it up and eat it because of the cleanliness. That’s why we found it necessary to partner with ASEPA. We believe this will be the start of an ongoing collaboration with the agency.”
“We are confident ASEPA will sustain these efforts. Unlike some organizations where donated vehicles become rundown within months, we believe ASEPA will maintain the standard and keep improving.”
Also speaking, the Chairman of the House Committee on Environment in the Abia State House of Assembly, Hon. Kalu Mba Nwoke, appreciated the company for supporting ASEPA.
He said the gesture reinforces the goals of HAB 31—a bill to establish the Abia State Polluter Pays and Extended Producer Responsibility Law for managing non-biodegradable packaging materials.
According to him, when passed into law, the bill will create synergy between the state and private industries to effectively manage waste.
“What you have done today is in line with the proposed law. Unfortunately, some stakeholders like pure water producers have only focused on one aspect of the bill, the polluter pays principle without embracing the broader context of extended producer responsibility.”
“We thank you for already taking steps in that direction. The bill is still under review, and we will send you a copy to make your input. We’re not trying to suffocate small businesses; instead, we want all stakeholders to come together and create a sustainable legal framework to protect our environment,” he added.
The Deputy General Manager of ASEPA, Ohafia Zone, Mr. Peter Ekekwe, expressed gratitude to GZ Industry, stating that the gesture had motivated ASEPA to intensify its efforts.
“It is encouraging when a third party recognizes your efforts and says, ‘You’re doing well, and I want to help.’ What this tells us is to expect more support in the future.”
“We sincerely appreciate your timely intervention. I had already informed our staff that bagging waste without protective gear must stop. Your donation will help enforce that. Our governor is intentional about ensuring Abia remains clean, and this support strengthens that goal. Thank you once again. Let this be the beginning of a long-lasting partnership,” he stated further.